By Kwame Bediako
The Acheampong siblings, Dave and Jeddy, have emerged victorious at the 2024 African Individual Schools Chess Championship held in Accra, Ghana. Their impressive performance not only earned them gold medals in their respective categories but also showcased the potential of young chess talents on the continental stage.
Dave Acheampong, competing in the Under-13 section, demonstrated exceptional prowess by accumulating an impressive 8½ points to secure the gold medal, while his younger brother Jeddy followed suit, clinching gold in the Under-11 category.
This achievement adds to their growing list of accolades, as the siblings previously garnered gold and silver at the same championship in Nairobi, Kenya, in 2021, establishing themselves as formidable competitors in the chess community.
The preparation leading up to the tournament was rigorous, as the siblings shared insights into their training regimen. In an interview with the African Chess Confederation media team, they revealed that their daily routine was meticulously structured to balance academic responsibilities with chess development.
“Our AISCC 2024 preparations were integrated into our daily routine, striking a balance between academic responsibilities and chess development. We engaged in focused practice sessions after school, addressed tasks assigned by our coach, and participated in online games,” the Acheampong siblings mentioned.
After clinching his third continental gold medal, Dave expressed his joy over the victory, as he emphasised the importance of diligence and persistence in achieving one’s goals. His desire to inspire the next generation of chess players reflects a broader commitment to promoting the sport within Ghana and beyond, as he aims to continue refining his skills and sharing his knowledge with others.
“I am overjoyed to have won my third continental gold medal. And I am satisfied that my diligence, persistence, and passion have generated the desired results. This victory has motivated me to continue refining my game and inspire the next generation of players.”
Despite their success, the Acheampong family faces challenges in securing sponsorship and funding to support their chess journey. Mr. David Acheampong, the boys’ father, expressed pride in their achievements while acknowledging the financial hurdles that accompany high-level competition.
As the siblings prepare for the upcoming World Championship in Serbia, their focus remains on representing Ghana proudly on the global stage, determined to overcome obstacles and continue their ascent in the world of chess.
